Crispy roast potatoes are a classic and delicious side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Achieving that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and tender requires a few key steps. Here’s a basic recipe for making crispy roast potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil (such as olive oil, canola oil, or duck fat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional seasonings (e.g., garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, paprika) for added flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes (if desired) and cut them into even-sized chunks or wedges. The size can vary depending on your preference, but larger chunks tend to result in creamier interiors.
- Parboil the Potatoes:
- Place the potato chunks in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be partially cooked but still firm. Test with a fork; they should offer some resistance when pierced.
- Drain and Roughen the Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a few minutes to steam off excess moisture. Then, give them a gentle shake to roughen up the edges. This step helps create extra surface area for crispiness.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the partially cooked and roughened potatoes with vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, and any optional seasonings you like. Common choices include garlic powder, rosemary, thyme, or paprika for added flavor.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Place the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet or roasting pan. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even browning.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Turn the potatoes occasionally to ensure even cooking. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potato pieces and your oven, so keep an eye on them.
- Serve:
- Once the roast potatoes are golden and crispy, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving dish. Serve hot.
Crispy roast potatoes are a fantastic side dish for roast meats, poultry, or as part of a Sunday roast. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior make them a favorite comfort food. Enjoy!